INVESTIGATION OF THE SHEAR STRENGTH OF STEEL BOLTED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA T-CONNECTION

Abstract

Bamboo is a renewable resource, and its good mechanical properties support the idea that bamboo can be used in the construction industry as an alternative structural member. When a bamboo building is exposed to earthquakes and strong winds, it is important to ensure the reliability of its members and their connections. However, bamboo connections remain insufficiently studied. This study focuses on the shear strength of a T-connection using fish-mouthed bamboo secured with a J-bolt. The T-connection was tested with three variations of J-bolt diameter. In this study, 8 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm were considered.  In addition, the combination of being tested with mortar infill and clamp attachments was also considered. A T-test and regression analysis were used to determine the significance of these variables on the joint's shear strength. Results showed that the J-bolt size had no dominant effect since the bamboo failed first. However, the thickness and density of the bamboo were found to influence the connection’s shear strength. Samples with both clamp attachments and mortar infill have higher strength than those without. The highest strength was the densest bamboo sample with clamp and mortar incorporated. Furthermore, connections without mortar behaved like roller support, while those with mortar acted as fixed support, offering greater flexibility in structural design. Case studies were conducted to assess the performance of T-connections in a 49 m² bamboo structure located near a fault line, considering both seismic and wind loads. Results showed that the connection is feasible for one-story, two-story, and three-story buildings.